For the Madison Heights Elementary School Student Council Association’s fundraiser this year, its four student representatives picked recipients dear to their hearts: animals.

The SCA worked during the school year to raise money for a $500 donation to the Humane Society of Amherst County. Efforts included having fellow students donate $1 to put a dog or cat ornament on the school’s Christmas tree, selling roses and other items on Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day and the student body putting down 50 cents per student for “Wacky Wednesday” activities such as wearing pajamas, hats and creative hairstyles.

The association presented the donation last week to Tony Curqua, the humane society’s president.

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“We’re very appreciative of the students’ efforts to help the homeless animals of Amherst County,” Curqua said. “They’re terrific kids.”

Michelle Barnes, a fourth-grade teacher who worked with the students on the project, said it was a labor of love for them.

“They had a really good time,” Barnes said. “They were excited about helping the animals.”

Aleeah Robertson, SCA president, said the fundraiser’s target is a charity she and the other students are passionate about supporting.

“I have a dog myself, and I wouldn’t want any kind of animal to suffer,” Robertson said.

Dakota Johnson, SCA vice president, said securing sales was a part of the project he enjoyed.

“I got to collect the money,” said Samantha Carr, the association’s treasurer. “I hope it goes toward medicine and food … so they can live.”

Principal Marvin McGinnis said the association’s support of the humane society was a wonderful idea.

“It was a way for them to serve the community,” McGinnis said. “That’s what it’s all about.”